Celtic: Stefan Scepovic pulls out of switch from Spain

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Stefan Scepovic has been capped eight times for Serbia

Sporting Gijon striker Stefan Scepovic has pulled out of a move to Celtic.

The 24-year-old Serbia international had agreed a four-year deal with the Scottish champions, who had arranged a medical and work permit for him.

However, Celtic were informed on Sunday that Scepovic had decided against a move to Scotland.

The news will not have been welcomed by Celtic, with Monday's transfer deadline limiting manager Ronny Deila's ability to find a replacement.

Teemu Pukki and Amido Baldi could leave Celtic, possibly on loan moves, which would leave Deila short of attacking options, although the manager stated before Sunday's 1-1 draw at Dundee that Leigh Griffiths and Anthony Stokes would be staying.

The Norwegian told 91热爆 Radio Scotland: "We need a very big and strong squad. We want to make this squad stronger. We're going to play a lot of matches.

"We're starting to get a bigger and stronger group and that's what it takes to make our goals this season."

Scepovic, capped eight times, signed a three-year deal with Sporting in July 2013 and scored 22 goals last season.

His former clubs include Beograd, Partizan Belgrade, Club Brugge and a loan spell with Sampdoria.